TPP 317: A Conversation About Autistic Burnout with Neurodivergent Support Specialist Kristy Forbes

I’m honored to kick off the season with a powerful conversation about autistic burnout with autism and neurodiversity support specialist, Kristy Forbes. Kristy and I talk about what exactly autistic burnout is and how it presents, why “deep rest” is critical for someone experiencing autistic burnout, and how autistic burnout is differentiated from mood disorders or depression. We also talk frankly about the challenges of seeing burnout in autistic children through a neuronormative lens, and how that may lead to therapies and strategies that may be the opposite of what a child in autistic burnout actually needs.

Kristy Forbes is an Australian-based autism & neurodiversity support specialist with experience working with clients both nationally and internationally. This includes neurodivergent people and their families; and professionals who wish to support them, such as educators, psychologists, pediatricians, allied health professionals, support workers and integration aides.

Kristy is formally identified autistic, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) as well as being a parent to four neurodivergent children.

Things you'll learn from this episode

• What autistic burnout is and how it's different from other types of burnout
• How mental health challenges might be misinterpreted in autistic burnout treatment
• How to support young people, adolescents, and children in recognizing the value of taking pause and resting
• Clues to help parents have a better understanding of what their child is struggling with
• Examples of what deep rest might look like for children and young people
• How to recognize when your child is starting to emerge from burnout

Resources mentioned for Autistic Burnout

• Kristy Forbes’ website InTune Pathways
• Kristy Forbes on Facebook
• A Conversation with Dr. Melissa Neff About Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) (podcast)
• In Tune Families Core Programs
• Kristy Forbes on Instagram
• Harry Thompson
• A Conversation with Neurodiversity & Support Specialist Kristy Forbes (Tilt Parenting Podcast)
• Kieran Rose, The Autistic Activist
• Kristie’s Critical Care & Recovery Program

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